Celebrations in Melbourne

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Jubilant celebrations erupted in Melbourne's Lonsdale Street this morning
after Greece won a spot in the Euro 2004 final.

About 500 people spilled out
onto the street, famous for its Greek restaurants and cafes, when Greece
defeated Czech Republic

1-0 in a silver goal, extra-time victory early
today.

The mainly youthful crowd burned flares and set off fireworks while
singing Greek chants among a sea of waving Greek flags.

Police blocked off
Lonsdale Street between Russell and Swanston streets and fire crews were on
stand-by nearby.

However, the celebrations so far have been without
incident.

One Greek fan, Bill Tamva, 39, said the win was overwhelming.

"I don't cry very often, but I think I cried," he said.

"I was numb,
in shock."

Maria Zaharion said it was wonderful to be a part of the
passionate and trouble-free celebrations.

"It's fantastic, it's good to see
that there's no trouble and everyone is celebrating the win," Ms Zaharion said.

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Peter, who watched the game from a Lonsdale Street cafe, said pandemonium
broke out when Greek defender Trainos Dellas scored the winning goal with just
seconds remaining in the first half of extra time.

"We just went crazy, we
turned the place upside down, everyone just can't believe it, everyone jumped up
and down," Peter told Melbourne radio ABC.